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Calling JJ Shiplett a ‘force of nature’ might be considered hyperbole to those who haven’t heard the singer perform live, but for anyone that has, it fits the bill just right. Few musicians can capture a person’s attention by way of song as honestly and effortlessly the way JJ does. The Calgary, Alberta based musician, singer/songwriter and storyteller has an incredible ability to leave lasting impressions on anyone within earshot with his gruff, powerful yet dynamic voice.
Shiplett’s musical journey has seen him share the stage with many renowned acts in both Canada and internationally including Ben Harper, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Dwight Yoakam, The Sheepdogs, Serena Ryder, Michael BernardFitzgerald, Johnny Reid and many more. Using his vast vocal range, relatable lyrics and well thought out arrangements, the singer first made his mark on the Canadian music scene with 2017’s Something To Believe In, followed by 2020’s FingersCrossed and Crossed Fingers. The albums showcased contemplative songwriting with emotive performances and have earned multiple Canadian Country Music Award nominations (CCMA’s) in the Americana/Roots and design categories.
The spring of 2023, Shiplett began to release the first instalments of a new album called ‘A Way Through Time.’ Containing seven new songs recorded in picturesque Fort Langley BC at Fort Records with engineer and drummer JayStewart and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Friesen - who was receiving treatment for stage 4 cancer at the time of the recording. The three were determined to make the most of the moment and enjoy the music making process knowing it The spring of 2023, Shiplett began to release the first instalments of a new album called ‘A Way Through Time.’ Containing seven new songs recorded in picturesque Fort Langley BC at Fort Records with engineer and drummer JayStewart and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Friesen - who was receiving treatment for stage 4 cancer at the time of the recording. The three were determined to make the most of the moment and enjoy the music making process knowing it would never happen again.would never happen again.
‘I got a friend out west staring pretty hard into the future, cross your arms, hold on, we know that nothing ever stays the same…’
Already There, the first release is a tingly ode to letting go with a classic pulse that propels JJ’s songwriting into territory previously staked by the likes of the Kathleen Edwards and Tyler Childers– we hear him opening up to the potential ofnot making any rules and challenging himself not to take his powerhouse voice and his choruses to the obvious places - chasing the desire of a great song over temporary acknowledgment. The wistful Oleander, searching for balance in an unknown world where he recently became a father. Followed by the resigned ballad Modern Drugs and BadFeelings (which peaked at #3 on CBC Music’s TOP 20) and the subtle and understated American Accent and Reckless Heart only serve to further pique one’s interest in the many places A Way Through Time and its successors will take Shiplett.
Boasting over 10 million global streams, he is not only a distinguished artist but also recognized as one of Canada's premier Americana-Roots musicians. And at this point in his career, the Western Canadian is content to take a backseat and let his songs lead the way.
Shiplett sings with a troubadour voice that belies his youth, and his songs resonate with emotional sincerity... Calgary Folk Festival "
Shiplett sings with a troubadour voice that belies his youth, and his songs resonate with emotional sincerity...